Florentino has blamed Mourinho for Sunday's 1-1 draw with Almeria, insisting he has created an unnecessary problem by moaning about the lack of attacking options he has, says AS.

A confidant of Florentino declared: "The problem is that the coach has caused a rift where none existed. Instead of enjoying the struggle we have with Barcelona and in the Copa against Atletico, we are engaged in self-destruction.

"It's crazy to make such an issue over a striker who would only come for six months. It has created a controversy and tension that is absurd."

On the prospect of signing Ruud van Nistelrooy, the insider added: "Right now, the signing is very difficult. If Hamburg does not change its position we are going to end the matter. We thank Ruud for his efforts, but Real cannot pay money for him when he left last year to go free to Germany."